NR 581 Week 2 NP Scope of Practice Worksheet

NR 581 Week 2 NP Scope of Practice Worksheet

Student Name

Chamberlain University

NR-581: Foundational Concepts for Advanced Nursing Practice

Prof. Name:

Date

NR581NP Scope of Practice Worksheet

Name: Lina Jimenez – Mendoza

Intended State of Practice

Upon completing the program, I intend to practice in the state of New Jersey. To obtain information regarding the nurse practitioner (NP) scope of practice in this state, I referred to various sources, including state boards, non-profit organizations, nurse associations, and government publications. The most reliable source for accurate information on the NP scope of practice in New Jersey is the New Jersey State Board of Nursing.

Educational and Certification Requirements

The state of New Jersey mandates that individuals seeking NP licensure must complete a graduate-level program from a board-approved institution, which includes a minimum of 39 hours of pharmacology coursework (NJ, 2024). Additionally, candidates must obtain national certification by passing an advanced practice exam through a nationally recognized certifying agency.

For certification, applicants must request an application packet from the New Jersey Board of Nursing and provide proof of their current New Jersey RN license. Furthermore, NPs are required to complete a minimum of 39 hours of supervised practice under the guidance of a qualified preceptor. This hands-on experience ensures that NPs develop the skills necessary to deliver high-quality care. Additionally, continuing education (CE) requirements must be met to maintain national certification, demonstrating the commitment of NPs to professional growth and patient safety (NJ, 2024).

Practice Environment

New Jersey is classified as a full practice state, meaning that NPs can assess, diagnose, and treat patients independently. However, physician collaboration is required for prescriptive authority (New Jersey Board of Nursing, 2024).

Under Section 13:37-7.9, advanced practice nurses (APNs) in New Jersey can provide preventive care services, diagnose, and manage chronic illnesses. They are authorized to order diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, initiate treatments, refer patients to specialists, and perform specific procedures within their scope of practice. While the state grants NPs full practice authority, they must establish a joint protocol with a licensed physician to prescribe medications and medical devices.

Prescribing Regulations

In New Jersey, NPs and APNs are authorized to prescribe controlled substances (Schedule II-V). However, they must adhere to specific regulations before issuing prescriptions. A joint protocol with a licensed physician is required before prescribing any medication or medical device. Additionally, NPs must complete six contact hours of continuing education in pharmacology related to controlled substances, addiction prevention, opioid prescription guidelines, and alternative pain management options (NJ, 2024).

Under Section 13:37-8, prescribers must perform a patient query via the New Jersey Prescription Monitoring Program (NJPMP) before prescribing a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance (CDS) or any opioid for acute or chronic pain. The initial prescription for acute pain is limited to a five-day supply, and the dosage must be the lowest effective amount of an immediate-release opioid drug. If prescribing a controlled dangerous substance (CDS), the advanced practice nurse’s DEA number must be included.

Furthermore, the collaborating physician and APN must outline in their joint protocol whether prior consultation is needed for prescribing controlled substances. The APN must sign the order, print their name and certification number, and include the collaborating physician’s name. The physician may review patient records and participate in treatment decisions as outlined in the joint protocol, which must be reviewed and updated annually (NJ, 2024).

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain licensure, New Jersey mandates that NPs complete 30 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years. This requirement includes at least one hour dedicated to organ and tissue donation and recovery, covering the clinical aspects of the process. Additionally, NPs must complete at least one hour of CE on opioid prescriptions, including alternatives to opioids, addiction prevention, and responsible prescribing practices. Furthermore, APRNs must complete six hours of pharmacology CE specifically related to controlled substances (NJ, 2024).

Understanding these requirements has provided valuable insight into my professional responsibilities and has reinforced my commitment to delivering safe, effective patient care.

Scope of Practice Table

References

New Jersey Board of Nursing. (2024, April 7). New Jersey – Advanced practice nurse certification. https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/nur/Pages/APN-Certification.aspx

NR 581 Week 2 NP Scope of Practice Worksheet